top of page
Search

Exercise and Brain Health

Updated: Jun 14, 2024


Did you know that exercise can lead to the production and release of various neurotransmitters?


Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons in the brain and nervous system. Some of the key neurotransmitters that are produced or affected by exercise include:


1. Endorphins: Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, which are neurotransmitters that act as natural painkillers and mood elevators. Endorphins are responsible for the "feel-good" sensation or "runner's high" that many people experience during or after exercise.


2. Serotonin: Exercise can increase levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. Higher levels of serotonin are associated with improved mood, reduced anxiety, and enhanced feelings of happiness and relaxation.


3. Dopamine: Physical activity stimulates the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in reward, motivation, and pleasure. Dopamine is often referred to as the "feel-good" neurotransmitter and is associated with feelings of enjoyment and satisfaction.


4. Norepinephrine: Exercise increases levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in the body's stress response and alertness. Norepinephrine helps improve focus, attention, and energy levels during physical activity.


5. Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF): Exercise promotes the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that supports the growth and survival of neurons in the brain. BDNF is involved in learning, memory, and mood regulation, and higher levels of BDNF are associated with improved cognitive function and mental health.


6. Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA): Exercise can increase levels of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that has calming and relaxing effects on the brain. Higher levels of GABA are associated with reduced anxiety and improved mood stability.




These neurotransmitters play crucial roles in regulating mood, cognition, stress response, and overall mental health. The production and release of these neurotransmitters during exercise contribute to the mood-enhancing and stress-reducing effects of physical activity, promoting feelings of well-being and improving overall mental health.


Now you know!



Dr Purity Carr

GP & Menopause Doctor

Harvey WA 6220

0471 224 333

 
 
 

Comments

Welcome to Purity Health Women’s Menopause and Wellbeing Centre™

​

At Purity Health, we believe in living life to the fullest. Dr Purity Menopause Clinic, in association with Samy Medical Group, is dedicated to providing safe, evidence based information and care in perimenopause, menopause, histamine related conditions, and metabolic health.

​

We recognise that there are many myths and misunderstandings surrounding menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy, HRT. One commonly repeated belief is that oestrogen causes breast cancer. This is an oversimplification and does not reflect the full body of evidence.

​

Here is the truth.

At Dr Purity Carr Menopause Clinic, we are committed to providing accurate information and personalised care.

Follow us on #drpuritycarr

Extensive evidence shows that for women within 10 years of menopause or under the age of 60, the benefits of HRT generally outweigh the risks.

​

For women who start HRT during perimenopause or within 10 years of menopause, there is often no need to stop purely based on age. Ongoing use should be individualised and guided by clinical review.

Even for women who are further beyond menopause or over 60, starting HRT may still be considered under the guidance of a knowledgeable practitioner, with careful assessment of risks and benefits.

​

A Broader Approach to Women’s Health

Dr Purity is a General Practitioner with a special interest in menopause care, taking a holistic, systems based approach to women’s health.

​

In addition to menopause, her work now includes:

Hormone health, including perimenopause and menopause
Histamine related conditions, including suspected mast cell activation patterns
Metabolic health, including weight management, insulin resistance, and inflammation
The interaction between hormones, the immune system, and the nervous system

Many women experience symptoms that do not sit neatly within one system. Hormones do not operate in isolation. There is often an overlap between hormonal changes, histamine activity, and metabolic dysfunction. This integrated approach allows for a deeper understanding of symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, poor sleep, weight gain, brain fog, and chronic inflammation.

 

Dr Purity’s Focus on Care

Dr Purity focuses specifically on menopause, histamine balance, and metabolic health. She works to identify underlying drivers of symptoms and supports women through evidence based, personalised care.

Please note that Dr Purity does not replace your general practitioner. The experienced doctors at Samy Medical, part of the same medical system as Purity Health, are available to manage your broader healthcare needs.

bottom of page